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Taxpayers Association calls for end to benefits for incarcerated criminals

Charlene Close & 680News staff Apr 26, 2010 22:56:48 PM
A Canadian Taxpayers Association petition with more than 46,000 signatures is now in the hands of the Harper government.

It has demanded the end of Canadians' tax dollars going to seniors living behind bars.

Currently, every senior in Canada, including prisoners like child killer Clifford Olson, are entitled to Old Age Security and pension payments. For Olson that adds up to about $14,000 a year.

Kevin Gaudet of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation told 680News the support programs were meant to help struggling seniors.

"Prisoners who enjoy three square meals, room and board, TV, recreation and entertainment don't have any expenses because we're already paying for them to be in jail - so we shouldn't pay them twice by also giving them access to these programs," he said.

In total, senior prisoners receive about $7-million a year in benefits.

Human Resources Minister Diane Finley said she intends to have a bill ready within the next couple of weeks, which will go before Parliament in an effort to cancel the payments.

However, until the bill is actually passed the Canadian Taxpayers Federation is urging Canadians to sign the online petition.

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